A catering assistant works in the hospitality industry, assisting with administrative tasks and customer service. They must be able to adapt quickly to changing priorities and may have opportunities for growth within the industry. Workload can vary based on location and seasonality.
A catering assistant usually holds an administrative position at a hotel, restaurant, catering company, or other establishment that provides food, drink, and space for special events. Typically reporting to a Catering Director, this individual often helps catering sales managers secure future business and maintain the needs of a current customer base. Screening phone calls, filing, and coordinating vendors for upcoming duties are also typical job responsibilities for a catering assistant.
The ability to work in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment is a trait shared by most people in the hospitality industry. A successful catering assistant is usually able to adapt quickly to changing priorities. For example, a wedding originally planned for 100 guests may grow in size just a few days before the event. When this happens, the attendant may be responsible for informing the banquet staff and other departments so they can prepare for the increased guest count. This may also include ordering additional rental items to accommodate new demand.
Typically, a catering assistant job is an entry-level position. It typically makes for an excellent introduction to the hospitality industry. There is often a great deal of exposure to various types of roles, which require attention to detail and close communication between catering professionals and clients. As contracted events approach, administrative tasks may increase. Floor plans are often created, menus can be selected, and cross-departmental meetings and event communication increase.
A person in this role usually has a lot of contact with customers. He or she can schedule meetings, confirm appointments for the sales team, and answer incoming calls. Composing and sending company brochures or sending timely emails can also be included in the daily job responsibilities of a person in this job.
There are often excellent growth opportunities for the successful catering assistant. Promotions may include advancement to a catering sales position. As many hotels and resorts own multiple properties, hospitality professionals find it easy to relocate if desired, while receiving excellent benefits.
The hospitality industry is generally seasonal, but this can vary based on the location of the business. Consequently, a catering assistant’s workload can vary. For example, locations that tend to experience snowstorms in the winter often guarantee less business during these months, but are much busier in the warmer months of spring and summer. On the other hand, tropical areas that are more likely to experience extreme heat or inclement weather during the summer are sometimes less busy during this time of year, but generally flourish in the winter.
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